i've learned i only need 5 or six swirls on the stirling barbershop to load up for plenty of face lathering

That I should throw out blades I find in a razor when I can't remember how old they are instead of shaving with them.

+1

That's what I've been doing too lately with great results!

When talking to my Barber while he's giving me a trim, I found out that I have a much higher standard of shave than most people and barbers do. He just couldn't believe that I re-lathered after each pass. And he didn't think he could get my tricky neck smooth without irritation. Heck I even have trouble with it.

So yeah I'd have to go to a really really good Barber to have a shave.

+1 here as well.

I learned that when involved in a 30-day commitment to a specific setup, the last few days of the month pass much more slowly than the first.

I made a return to DE razors today.

Used my Gillette NEW (LC I think..seriously there is no difference in how their SC and LC works for me) w/ common bar handle.
Loaded with a GSB blade it gave me a fantastic shave. Two passes and BBS - with no touch-up areas.

I'm not quite sure what I actually learned...but I was reminded, yet again, how great these vintage razors are and they they will most likely continue to be just as great long after I'm gone.

Don't use an old blade that is already used. Just don't.

That I prefer 3 pieces over a TTO.

Does that include the blades that are in razors that I buy on eBay?

The ones that come from West Africa are probably okay.

Nah

Hah...

That I need more blade exposure. It takes me 3 passes with my 37c or my NEW to get DFS. I just got a Near BBS from 1 pass WTG plus touch up with my Fatboy on 9. Now I have to shim the new just for comparison.

Brave man! I've tried shaving on 9 and I have to be perfect in technique or else I feel like I'm using a corn slicer thing on my face

It's interesting that many people 'dial down' between passes when using the adjustables. Ex: set at 8 on first pass and at 3 the 2nd pass.
Never tried it though, my Slim has been set to '8' for as long as I can remember

I'm sure I'll try that at some point. My concern with that is the angle will need to be different depending on where you dial in, so you need to adjust every time you change it.

Use a FaTip. Problem solved.

Today I shaved on 9. Couple of nicks but a great smooth shave.

I learned today that I can indeed shave the day after a shave with enough blade exposure.